Tooth Pain

Responding to tooth pain

Tooth decay is the leading cause of dental pain. Decay is caused by bacteria, and if not treated properly can spread to other parts of the teeth and into the gums. Dental injury and gum disease are also common causes of tooth pain.

The only surefire way to investigate the cause of tooth pain is to see a dentist. Dr. Leach’s team of experts will investigate your symptoms and perform diagnostic tests (like X-Rays) to try and pinpoint the pain source.

Severe Pain/Root Canal Emergencies

Tooth decay, constant pain or pressure, swelling of gum tissue and/or sensitivity to touch are all possible indications of an infection. In some cases the infection may create an abscess (a fluid-filled sac) in gum and bone tissue (which itself can be very painful). An abscess is a situation that calls for treatment at Steven Leach Dental as soon as possible – not only to alleviate the pain, but also to save the tooth while there’s still time. Dr. Leach may need to perform a root canal to remove diseased or dying tissue. He may also recommend periodontal treatment to drain the abscess and treat the underlying infection.

Pain that lingers after eating hot or cold food is often an indicator of disease deep within the tooth itself. This deep decay (or sometimes dental trauma) can allow bacteria to penetrate into the pulp of a tooth. When this happens the nerves inside the pulp of a tooth can die, and the pain may recede. However treatment is still critical, because, even though pain may have subsided, the infection is likely still present and can spread. As soon as possible, make an appointment with Dr. Leach’s experts. A root canal may be necessary to preserve the tooth and prevent further damage.

Sharp pain when biting on food can be caused by a variety of situations: tooth decay, cracked teeth, loose fillings, damaged pulp. This kind of pain should be treated by Dr. Leach as soon as possible. The team at Steven Leach Dental can help identify the issue and recommend the appropriate treatment.

Toothache

Momentary sensitivity to hot or cold foods can be the result of tooth decay, a damaged filling or receding gums (which may expose the roots of the tooth).

Sometimes you may be able to treat a toothache by switching to a softer toothbrush for a few weeks. These brushes are designed for sensitive teeth. Toothpaste formulated for sensitive teeth may help as well.

If symptoms persist, make an appointment with Steven Leach Dental. Sometimes dental treatment in and of itself can lead to increased sensitivity (which, ironically, can be then be relieved by the same treatments). If your pain persists or gets worse, make an appointment to see Dr. Leach as soon as possible.

Pain and pressure in the upper jaw and teeth may be caused by sinus congestion from a cold or the flu. Usually, when the illness subsides the dental pain subsides as well. Clenching or grinding (bruxism) can cause similar symptoms. A nightguard created for you by Steven Leach Dental can protect your teeth and help alleviate pain and discomfort caused by clenching or grinding.

Regardless of the nature of your dental pain, if that pain is persistent it’s always important to seek treatment. Contact us today to discuss any of your tooth pain.